EXPERIENCE life made simple, witness Fiji in its true style and discover the untouched secret of northeast Viti Levu at Natalei Eco Lodge Resort.
Boasting locally-designed architecture, this unique eco lodge sits directly on a silky black sand beach.
The area is a rich nature’s cape, home to both spinner and bottlenose dolphins, and possessing great forest landscapes and seascapes.
It functions in harmony with the natural environment, minimising its eco footprint while generating a livelihood for the local community at the same time.
It is also a wonderful example of the seamless integration of community life, the natural environment and tourism in a way which ensures a sustainable future.
The lodge is managed by Viliame Koyamaibole and owned and operated by Nataleira Village in Dawasamu, Tailevu.
“Our Fiji accommodation offers fresh beds in locally architect-designed bure, ensuites, high thatched roofs and spacious verandas,” he said.
Natalei’s property features dining, a fruit bar, entertainment, and ancillary supplies.
“Our friendly local staff members are able to provide all the information you will need on our local area.”
Location
Natalei Eco Lodge is located in one of the most remote locations in Fiji, on the east coast of northern Viti Levu.
The lodge is a 30-minute drive from Suva and about one hour from Nausori International Airport.
To reach the resort, visitors will need to drive along the scenic and historical Tailevu coast on tarsealed road about three quarters of the way before taking a dirt highway for the rest of the journey.
Facilities
“On the way to the eco-lodge, you’ll pass two famous boys’ schools — Ratu Kadavulevu and Queen Victoria.
“You will travel through some picturesque coastal farms and mountain backdrops until you arrive at Nataleira Village,” Mr Koyamaibole said.
Activities
Tova peak is in Dawasamu and can be spotted a mile out as you drive into the country side. Personally, this is one of the most challenging hikes in Fiji and you must be fit for it.
If you have not been to Tova Peak you have not seen the best of Northland Tailevu.
Tova Peak is a great attraction and one of the ‘wonders’ of Dawasamu for the adventurous at heart.
It can be quite a strenuous hike for beginners but once you are into it, you’re all set to reach the summit.
Visitors can go on a guided tour to waterfalls and water pools, take a shopping trip to Korovou Town, visit the Vatu-i-Ra birdlife sanctuary, Moon Reef marine protected area with spinner dolphins and exploring the island on a bicycle ride.
Mr Koyamaibole said guests also had the opportunity to interact with locals and sharing domestic farm skills and knowledge with farmers in the area.
“They can also drive a bullock plough for making the soil ready, join the ladies for a fish drive, net fishing, catching prawns in small rivers, planting trees, take lessons at preliminary school, painting, sports, participate in handline fishing and trawling Fijian style as well as join a kava party and sing along,” he said.
The facilities at Natalei embrace a simple lifestyle to make their entire visitors feel relaxed in the company of locals and nature.
There are a lot of things to do and see in this stunning part of Fiji.
